NHL News Break

 Detroit’s most formidable playoff opponent seems to be the Sharks here in the beginning of the 08-09 season.  San Jose looks sharp behind Nabokov and the new defensive strategy for San Jose to go on offense.  Whereas last season, San Jose looked to have all action stem from point-man Joe Thornton, now Defenseman like Christian Ehrhoff are getting into the shooting and scoring mix.  Similarly, Duck defenseman Rob Niedermeyer added a goal, and Francois Beauchemin had five shots.  Unfortunately, Beauchemin is not the offensive threat that Niedermeyer and Pronger are, so should pass more often.  There was a situation last night when Beuchemin got the puck, had an open shot, had a guy down low to Nabokov’s right, yet Beuchemin failed to pass, shot, and Nabokov ate it up.  The Sharks just dominated the Ducks and Ryan Getzlaf did not even shoot the puck once.  Anaheim may be the better team, just more rusty and need to get better adjusted with the addition of Teemu Selanne.  In addition, Chris Kunitz displayed his playmaker capabilities, however, San Jose’s defense was very good and seemed to bubble up any of Anaheim’s offensive attack.

The difference maker between these two teams on Thursday night was the respective goalies from San Jose, Evgeni Nabokov and Vancouver Roberto Luongo.  These two were exceptional while both teams interestingly rolled over Anaheim and Calgary.

Most notably, Vancouver rolled over Calgary 6 to ZERO.  Steve Bernier was fantastic playing with the Sedin twins and scored a goal.  Mattias Ohlund scored a goal and a vicious hit on Jerome Iginla that send his neck almost through the boards.  Alex Burrows payed tribute to his late teammate Luc Bourdon who tragically died in a motorcycle accident in the offseason, by scoring two goals.  The Canucks still have young talent that is fast, like Mason Raymond, Ryan Kessler, and Taylor Pyatt.  Vancouver displays great young energy and should be considered an early contender in the West. 

FANTASY WATCH:  Canuck Teammate Pavol Demitra expressed his belief linemate speedster Mason Raymond will have at least 30-goals this season.  If you are like me and like 30-plus goal scorers than you may want to consider adding Mr. Raymond.

Also, you should add Steve Bernier to your team ASAP and Alex Burrows.  They look too good and problematic for opposing defenses.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to start Chris Kunitz.  This is Kunitz’s golden opportunity to be a great player at left-wing for the Ducks.  Kunitz is an offensive spark plug so he should inject some life into your fantasy team’s offense too.